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SALAMBO 



A TRAGEDY IN FOUR ACTS 



BY 



GEORGE MORRISON VON SCHRADER 




BOSTON 

SHERMAN, FRENCH ^ COMPANY 

191i 






Copyright, 1913 and 1914 
George Morrison von Schrader 



NOV -6 1914 
©CLA38S262 



<««; / 



SAXAMBO 

The play is founded on Flaubert's novel 
of the same name. Many of the scenes 
have been taken from the book, but both 
story and characters have been changed for 
dramatic as well as other reasons. 

The date of the play is 250 b. c. Car- 
thage though a republic is virtually ruled by 
Hamilcar, who, as the play opens, is in 
Sicily conducting war with a mixed army 
of his own men and mercenaries. The 
mercenaries not having received their pay 
have returned to Carthage to demand 
it, and by their great numbers have over- 
awed the people. As the curtain rises a 
grand feast is in progress which they have 
demanded and which was granted to ap- 
pease their anger. The feast is held in the 
gardens of the palace. 



CHARACTERS 

Salambo, daughter of Hamilcar 

Matho, chief of mercenaries 

Narr Havas, Numidian prince (a traitor) 

Spendius, Roman prisoner 

Hamilcar, ruler of Carthage 

Gisco, Carthaginian general 

Sahabarian, high priest 

Taanach, Salambo's nurse 

Soldiers, slaves, and mercenaries 



ACT I 



ACT I 

Scene: As the curtain rises a grand feast is 
being held in the magnificent tropical gardens 
of Hamilcar. Everything is barbaric and bois- 
terous. The mercenaries are seated around 
tables laden with peacocks, swans, boars* heads 
and flagons of wine, eating with their hands 
while slaves are rushing around to supply their 
wants. In the centre is a table reserved for the 
officers. To the left is the palace, the door of 
which opens on a porch some twenty feet above 
the garden, from which wide steps lead to the 
ground. Back of the tables there is a caldron 
supported by a tripod with a fire under it. Still 
back of this is a bamboo fence leading to other 
gardens. The rear drop is Carthage. 

The mercenaries consist of spear smen and 
archers, slingers and swordsmen. The cos- 
tumes would have to be drawn from the history 
of that time. Gold and iron armor, shields, 
and lions'' and lynxes* furs. 

[As the feast is in progress Matho enters 
from R. followed by Narr Havas and 
goes to C. Men all rise and grasp 
their cups^ 

1 



2 ^alamfio 



Men 

To our chief! 

[Drain their cups~\ 

Matho 

Fall to, mj men, nor stint your appetites. 
We'll feed upon these Carthaginian dogs, 
And like the locusts on the Isle of Crete, 
Whose ponderous bellies devastate the land, 
So we will empty all their larders clean. 
Till they relent their treachery to us. 
And pay each with a measure overflowing. 

Men 

We will ! We will ! 

Matho 

While we were fighting to defend their land, 
The merchants have been robbing, far and wide. 
And now, when we demand our honest pay. 
Conceal their treasure, and proclaim distress. 

Men 

[Shouting^ 
We'll find it. We'll find it. 

Matho 
Beneath the surface in the earth's deep bowels 



©alamljo s 



Great caves and caverns have been deftly dug, 
And filled to bursting with rare gems and gold. 
Shall we be duped by cunning traders' lies? 
Or ferret out their treachery like brave men? 

Men 
Dig! Dig! 

Mat HO 

Then let us all turn moles, and dig and dig. 
We'll undermine the city foot by foot, 
Until we've found wherewith to pay ourselves, 
Even though the palaces and walls all sink, 
And fall together one colossal mass. 

Naru Havas 

[Going up to Matho] 
Thou should'st not, O Matho, incite hatred 
In thy men, against their dearest friends. 

Matho 

\Contem])tuously~\ 
Friends ! 

Is the slimy leech who crawls upon man 
Then sucks away his vital blood, his friend? 
The vulture soaring in heaven's vast expanse. 
But prying for a human sacrifice, his friend? 
Methinks love of such friends is too intense. 
Affection 'tis less tender than devouring. 



©alamfto 



Narr Havas 

But have you not been royall}^ received? 
Do not all voices loudly sing your praise? 

Matho 

If praise were gold, each man were now a Plutus. 
The contract read our pay should be in coin. 
Praises are tender alone where we love. 
But where we hate, the only pay is gold. 

Narr Havas 

The august Council is both just and kind. 
Nor have denied 3^our claim as fair and right, 
Simply asking respite of a few short days 
In order to collect the levied tax. 
Which paid, will thus fulfil the debt, — 
Have patience. 

Matho 

[^Angered^ 
Patience ! — 

Have we not waited now for two long moons? 
The longer time but brings the greater promise. 
Did ever battle-axe its sanguinary course 
Delay an instant to save our necks ? 
Or ever slinger's shot its path forsake. 
Deviating its course to shield our skulls? 
'Tis well to use tliat word of patience now. 



§)aUimlio 



But then 'twould sounded like a childish cry, 
And echoing laughter would have answered, 

coward ! 
The word patience is foreign to our tongue. 
We understand alone, blood given, gold paid. 

[Voices crying zvitJiout^ 

[Listening^ 
What voices do we hear? Sounds like patience. 
Let's go and see if they are listened to. 

Four Men 

We'll follow you. 

[Exit Matho with Four Men, to R~\ 

Narr Havas 

[Comes to centre, thinking asidel^ 
Some master stroke must soon be made, or else 
These mercenary hounds will sack the town. 
I scarcely know as yet with whom to side. 
The town though rich lacks men to force its 

hand. 
To free itself from these barbarian dogs. 
Should Hamilcar return, all might be well, 
But he still lingers in a foreign land. 
And who is here to stem this frightful tide? 
Beware, Narr Havas, when you make a stand, 
Your judgment is not overruled by conscience. 

[Matho and Men return with several 
prisoners in chains^ 



S>aIambo 



Matho 

[To Narr Havas as he points to the chains 
sarcastic all ij^ 
Patience here seems a first cousin to force. 
I greatly fear me, were the power theirs, 
Our pay should be in links instead of coin. 
And with a measure overflowing. 

l^To men^ 
Throw off those shackles from these tortured 

men. 

Narr Havas 

Suspicion feeding on itself creates 
Within the mind the crime it contemplates. 

Matho 

[To Spendius] 
Who art thou, man? What country claim you 
home ? 

Spendius 

My name is Spendius, and am a Roman. 
I was a captain in the Roman fleet 
In that gi*eat fight off the yEgaetian Isles. 
The battle was full won, with heated blood 
We gazed upon the routed enemy. 
Seeing their galleys fleeing in dismay 
My courage buoyed up by confidence 



^alamljo 



O'erstepped the cooler judgment of my mind. 
Alone I followed like a dog the stag, 
And when beyond the succor of my friends, 
The three all fell upon our ship at once 
And drove us from Its sanguinary decks, 
I had been fighting yet, save for a blow 
Which cowardly was aimed behind my back. 
Ail then was darkness, and when light returned, 
I found myself in chains on board their ship. 
From thence they threw me in tliat hellish hole 
Where death was knocking when you oped the 

door. 

[Dropping on his knee before Matho] 

To thee I owe my liberty, my all. 

And from this day these hands which thou setst 

free 
Are thine forever, to serve or to fight. 
A Roman stoops to be thy humble slave. 

Matho 

Rise ! 

I did not take those shackles from thy hands 
Rut to immure them in the chains of mine. 
The link of friendship I will on thee place. 
Rut guard It closely with thy conscience' eye ; 
'TIs easier broken than a spider's web. 
And all the metal that the earth contains 
Cannot renew the link, when once It snaps. 



8 ^alamlio 



[^Taking up a cup of wine and handing it 
to Spendius] 
This cup of wine shall weld the link — Drink ! 

Spendius 

[Raising cup^ 
To thee! 

Could I but drink the depth of gratitude, 
'Twould drain the ocean like an arid desert. 

Men 
[Cr2^ out] 
He's one of us ! He's one of us ! 

Matho 

Go join the men and slack your craving jaws. 

[To Narr Havas] 
Now come, Narr Havas ; let us look about 
And find more evidence of friendly deeds. 

Narr Havas 

The eye sees things as focussed by the mind, 
Not as they are, but as it would them be. 

Matho 

The honest mind, like the burnished mirror. 
Reflects alone the truth — Come. 

[Matho and Narr Havas exit to R. 
Spendius joints men^ 



©alamlio 9 



Men 

Sit here. Sit here. 

l^They drag him down to table at C. 
Spendius looks at cups they are drink- 
ing from] 

Spendius 
[To men] 
But wherefore is it that these cups are used.'' 
The sacred legions' cups should crown this feast 
In honor to their conquering guests to-night. 
Are they too precious to be held by hands 
Which they entrust to liberate their land? 

Men 

The cups ! The cups ! 

Spendius 

[Inciting Men] 
These are but pewter with a wash of gold, 
The others are as pure as mountain snow. 

Men 

The cups ! The cups ! 

Spendius 

[To Slave] 
Produce the cups at once. We wish them. 



10 S)alamlJO 



First Slave 

Noble sir, the wealthy merchants guard them, 

and 
They all sleep. 

Spendius 
Then let the parsimonious dogs be called. 

Men 

The cups! The cups! 

Second Slave 

Most honored chief, they are locked within the 
temple. 

Spendius 
Then tear the temple open. 

Men 
The cups ! The cups ! 

Third Slave 
Sires, they are in the custody of General Gisco. 

All 

[Yell] 
Then let him bring them here. 



@)aIambo ii 



[Enter Gisco from L. followed by two 
Soldiers. Men continue calling for 
cups. Gisco goes to C] 

Gisco 

Men ! If but your courage were considered, 
The cups were doubly merited by you. 

Men 
Right ! Right ! 

Gisco 

And who can better gauge thy worth than he 
Whose watchful eyes gazed spellbound on your 

valor ? 
Who never left you In the fiercest fight. 

Men 
'TIs true ! 'Tis true ! 

Spendius 

[Sarcastically] 
Now watch him draw the wool. 

Gisco 

But here each man Is guarded In his own, 
Nor can we wrench from one what belongs to 
him. 



12 S^alambo 



The rights of property are sacred here, 
And therefore are those cups beyond my reach. 
[The Soldiers start a great commotion. 
One rushes at Gisco ajid draws his 
sword, but Gisco knocks him over with 
his ivory baton^ 
Dog ! Darest thou brandish a sword at Gisco ! 
[He retires to L. and edits. The Men 
continue jeering, calling for the cups^ 

Men 

Let's look for them. 

[They break dozen bamboo fence in rear 
and disappear through garden. Spen- 
Dius is left alonel^ 

Spendius 
Freed ! Freed ! 

Again I breathe the happy air of heaven. 
It fills my body with new life and hope, 
But 'tis a foreign hope to that of yore 
Which blossomed like the orchards in the 

spring, 
Then dropped their fairy garb, Avooed by the 

breeze, 
But to disclose the beauteous germ of love. 
A w orm has entered in that flower of hope ; 
'Twas bred within those filthy dungeon walls. 
The germ of love is stung and changed to gall, 



©alamtjo i3 



And all of love Is turned but to revenge. 
I'll strain each power in this human frame ; 
I'll mingle cunning, treachery, and deceit ; 
And crown the whole with courage of a fiend, 
Till Carthage falls in ruins round my feet. 
And Hamilcar is served a feast to dogs. 

[Stops, then co7itinues] 
IVIatho, from thee my heart shall never swerve. 
I swore to be thy slave ; tliat oath shall keep. 
But in thy bosom I will plant a spark 
Which shall lay waste to all this hated land. 
Then, all the glory, all the bounty, yours. 
Revenge is all I ask, is all I seek. 

[The Men come back from rear with fish 
in their hands, laughing and shouting^ 

Men 

See ! See ! 

Spendius 
[Going up and looking at fish'\ 
You've made a lucky haul In yonder pool ; 
Those are the sacred fish to whom they pray. 
Their fish-gods shall never more be worshipped. 
Lest they worship them within our bellies. 
Let's cook them on this fire and eat them. 

Men 

We will, we will. 

[They throw fish in fire] 



14 ©alambo 



Spendius 

Well said, well done. Wc first will cat their 

gods, 
And should they not satisfy, we'll eat them. 
A Carthaginian pie might be a savory dish. 

Men 

Carthaginian pie ! Carthaginian pie ! 

Spendius 

A feast of Carthaginians, methinks, might bring 
Gold from their chests to pay our debt. 

Men 

A stew ! A stew ! 

Spendius 

A Carthaginian soup might far excel 

The famous Spartan broth they brag about. 

Men 

A soup ! A soup ! 

[The door of the jyalace opens, and Sa- 
LAMBO with her Priestesses in flowing 
robes slowly walk dozvn the steps, chant- 
ing. Salambo leads; the others, six, fol- 
low. The Men all silently ga:ie at her 
spellbound. Matho enters from R. 



^alambo 15 



followed by Narr Havas, just as she is 
coming out. He advances to C. with 
his eyes upon her and then stands trans - 
fixedy with Narr Havas behind him] 

Salambo 
[Tanit is the moon whom they worship as 
a goddess. Speaking in a dreamy man- 
ner] 
Dead ! All dead ! 

O Tanit, close thine eyes on this foul deed 
P'or fear thine anger might exceed its bounds 
And fall a curse upon thy priestess' heads. 
O Tanit ! Tanit ! Pity, pity me. 

[Walks over to fire and watches fishes 
burning] 
Never again while watching 'round thy pool 
Shall I behold thy sparkling sides shine forth, 
Like rainbows in the clear pellucid depths. 
Nor ever more will to the surface rise 
Thy open mouths to whisper Tanit's words. 
I'ld freely given all my earthly wealth 
T've saved you from these wild barbarian hands. 
Why did they do this, when their plates were 

filled? 
Did I not order beeves, and wild game killed, 
And filled the urns with our most precious wine? 
But naught could satisfy their appetite 
Save my poor fishes, which they now have killed. 



16 ©alamfto 



Matho 

\_Turns to Spendius and asks hiTn in a 

■fierce wliisper~\ 
Who killed the fishes? I will crucify him. 

[^Without waiting for an answer he again 

gazes at Salambo] 

Salambo 

[Turning to the Men defiantly'] 
What mean these deeds of outrage in this place? 
Is this a conquered city 3^ou would raze? 
Are we but slaves, and you the masters here? 
Behold! The trophies of a thousand fights 
Are strewn upon these steps, and mutely speak 
The valor of the master of this house. 
Burn it to the ground ! I defy you all ! 

[Then softening her voice she continues] 
And yet this might have been a wanton deed, 
And doubtless you repent its action now. 
Full well you know my father Hamilcar, 
Whose conquering sword spread bounty to his 

men. 
Reserving but the glory for himself. 
Were he but here, around his feet you'ld crowd. 
And in his absence his daughter will protect. 

[Takes a goblet of mine from table and 
hands it to Matho] 
Drink ! 



©alambo n 



Matho 
[Dropping on one knee and raising gob- 
let] 
I drink to thee! 

As freely as this wine flows down my throat, 
So freely shall the blood of Matho flow, 
When called up by thee. 

[Matho drains cup. As he rises, Narr 
Havas who is behind him is seen draw- 
ing a dagger, and as Matho places cup 
on table Narr Havas stabs him in the 
arm, pinning it to table] 

Narr Havas 

Barbarian dog! I'll cool your heated blood. 

[Narr Havas makes his escape, exiting 

to R. with several of his men. There 

is great commotion and Sai^ambo moves 

back to steps fearfully] 

Matho 
[Writhing with pain draws dagger from 
arm] 
I'll be revenged e'en though he quits this world. 
I'll follow him to hell and face him there. 

[Matho rushes to R. after Narr Havas, 
followed by his men] 
Hold! Hold the coward! But let me see his 
face! 



18 ^alamfto 



[Exit to U. on run] 

I NiiHSK conns out of palace door and 
rushes to Salaruu) vert/ cA'citcdli/l 

NnHSK 
My clilld! \Vliat would.sl thou Uvvc? 

Sai,.\miu) 
To fill tho <J!;{\]^ my father's ahsiMico niakos. 

Hut \]\vy >vill kill voii. 

Sakamiu) 

Four lias no place nnIumc (hit v calls. 
Or if it has, then duty is misplaccil. 

NnusK 
KiiOMcst thou thcv arc l)arhariaus? 

Sai.amiu) 

INIorc uohlciu>ss of heart is olfcn fouiul 
Beneath a rou^h, uncouth, and ru^^ed truidv 
Than lives within a [)olished, smiling mien. 
The swiH^test fruit springs from the f^narled 
tree. 

NiTUSK 

But come, T pray of you. 



©iilamljo 19 



Salambo 

I'll go to please you, nurse, but not from fear. 
yrhey (JO up steps together. At top Sa- 
LAMBo waits and listens^ 

Nurse 
Come, come; let's lock the doors. 

Salambo 
Wait but a moment. 

Nurse 

[Urgingly^ 
Oh! come within, for thy old nurse's sake. 

^ » 
Salambo > 

To please you I will go. 

[ They enter door and close it just as 
Matiio returns from ii] 

Matho 

[Aside] 
His feet seem winged, but we shall meet again. 
And then I'll match this wound upon his heart. 

[^Looks for Salambo and sees her disap- 
pearing through door arid closing it] 
Gone ! 
Oh, beauty! thou art more than human — God! 



J20 ©rtlrtiubo 



And from llns lunir I shmd lliv <<Mi(jMrr('<l slnvr. 
Though mII \\\r oIluT ^ods Mwnkcii 1ml (\ 
ril worship lUvv /duno, uiid slaiui the faio. 

[ /^//.v/^r.v ?/./^ /o door and tries to force it 

but in Vdiii. Just then nil the Mi,n rr- 

turiiy boisteroiisl/f crifing \ 

1\If,n 

Let's sHok the pal/icr. Let's burn fho city. 
Y'rheif start to (jo up steps. INIatho at 
top turns and fact's thcmi\ 

IMatho 

Tenets, lioiiiids ! Haclx ! I give yon timely 

wnriiin/:^. 
The band tluit on a tlious.Miid liattle tieids 
rias led yon gloriously to victory 
ller«> sl.inds aIon(\ prepared to vanijuisb all. 

I Drtnc'iuij his (jrcnt sword and leaving it 
over his head] 
Wbo ent(M's bere must (irsl subdue tlie sword 
Of Matbo! 



rUHTA IN 



Ac^r II 



ACT II 

Scene 1 

Scene: Half stage. A great plain without 
the walls of Carthage. A few palm trees (Jot- 
ted about, and here and there a bunch of cacti. 
Rather a desert scene. The back drop, Car- 
thage in the distance. Time, the afternoon. 
As curtain rises it discloses Matho and Spen- 
Diijs, talking. 

Matho 
We've blundered, Spendins ; we've blundered. 
A false step taken eannot be retraced, 
And oft leads to a long and rocky road. 
Once in the walls, we should have there re- 
mained, 
Not listened to their honeyed words, to leave; 
But like the Pillars of great Hercules 
Stood obdurate, re-echoing their voices. 
Like children we've been cozened with a sinile, 
And once without the walls, the gates are closed. 

Spendiits 

But we'll return. We'll starve them in their 

den. 

23 



^alambo 



Gates closed to us are likewise closed to food. 

Matho 

That is a mode of war that I would shun. 
To weaken ere you figlit is cowardly. 
I love to meet my foe in perfect strength, 
Then sword to sword defy him like a man. 

Spendius 
But strategy is surely fair in war.? 

Matho 

And so 'tis fair to cheat and lie in trade; 
They are the weapons of tlie little mind. 
The mouse must sneak about to gain his food, 
The lion takes it as his just reward. 
Come, let's inspect our men; I hate dehiy. 
I cannot sleep or rest, while she is there. 
[Exit to li] 

Narr Havas 

[Entering from L. Soliloquizing^ 
The time is ripe and I must take a stand 
Or else go down 'twixt the contending forces, 
And falling be consumed and ever lost. 
The secret of success in life depends 
Alone in measuring with a cunning hand 
And ever linking with the stronger force. 



©alam&o «6 



For tlien our profits though but small are sure, 
And thus we stand upon the vantage ground, 
To force the weaker, should they wish our aid, 
To pay with usurers' rates, and so grasp all. 
The city, it is true, by artful means 
Has freed itself of these barbarian dogs, 
But they'll return. Mark, Carthage; heed my 

words. 
And then beware! They'll burn you to the 

ground. 
Both forces I have measured with a vendor's 

skill. 
And thine, O Matho ! far outweighs the town's. 
So I'll make peace and join my hand in yours. 
But 'tis not love, nor hate, that prompts this 

deed. 
The wise alone obey expediency. 

Spendius 

[Entering from 7?] 

Is it thou, Narr Havas? What wouldst thou 
here ? 

The wound is not yet healed which thou in- 
flicted, 

The injured heart is slower still to mend. 

Narr Havas 

I came with contrite heart to ask forgiveness. 
'Twas not I, but the devils in the wine 



26 ^alambo 



Which caused the perpetration of the crime, 
And forced my weakened hand to do a deed 
Which fills me now with hatred for myself. 

Spendius 

Art sure the devils do not still remain, 
But sober judgment groping for excuse 
Would place the crime on any but itself? 
Wine steals away the cunning of the mind, 
And rightly shows us as we really are. 

Narr Havas 

It is unfair to judge the deeds of men 
Beneath a power that dominates their brain. 
To prove to you I am sincere in all, 
I have but come to enter into league, 
Whereby together we shall take the town. 

Spendius 

[Aside^ 
His words are fair, I wonder his intent. 
Whate'er it be, we'll risk it for his aid. 

[To Narr Havas] 
Then 'tis meet thou first make peace with 

Matho. 

Narr Havas 

'Tis truly said, and therefore am I here. 
But bid me where, and I will find him. 



©alamfto 27 



Spendius 

'Twere better first that I should smooth the 

way, 
For should he see you in his heated blood, 
His sword might speak, before your voice had 

chance. 
I'll to him now with soothing words ; wait here, 
Wlicn you perceive my oil has smoothed the 

flood, 
Approach, and we will talk the matter over. 

Narr Havas 

'Tis skilfully arranged ; I'll wait my time ; 
Thou art a man both worth}^ to command 
As well as fair, and wisely to advise. 

Spendius 

[Aside] 
That he's a master rogue there is no doubt. 
But I shall watch him with a lynx's eye. 

[Ea^it to R] 

Narr Havas 

[Alone, laughing s arc as tic ally ~\ 
Ha ! ha ! my good stone cracker, smooth the 

road; 
Narr Havas does not wish to stub his toes. 
I'll follow up this path providing that 



^3 ^alambp 



It leads my way ; if not, I'll step aside. 

No ploughshare shall I draw for others' gain. 

They come; I will retire till all is well. 

[Steps to L. arid rear^ 

[Enter Spendius and Matho R., talking 
very excitedlyl 

Matho 

No, no; never shall we join hands again 
Except within the longed-for grasp of death. 
I'll cut his throat, and drink each drop of blood ! 
From out his carcass I will tear his heart, 
And throw it to my dog to feed upon, 
Save that I fear 'twere poison, sure to death. 

Spendius 

Cool thyself; thou knowest he was drunk. 
And we have all done deeds amiss when thus. 

Matho 

[Coolingi 
'Twas not the deed, but the manner perpetrated. 
Had he come forth and challenged me to fight, 
I ne'er had whimpered, nor begrudged the 

blood ; 
But, Spendius, 'twas done behind my back. 

Spendius 
'Tis true, nor would I e'er the crime condone. 



©alambo 29 



Save that he comes unasked to pray forgiveness. 
Besides, he wishes to join league with us. 
His forces are both strong and well equipped. 
It is an arm thou canst not cast aside. 
Thou wouldst be great ; then bend and take his 
hand. 

Matho 

'Tis foreign to my blood to take a hand 
Unless the heart is stamped within the grasp. 

[Pause] 
I'd rather crush his heart than gain the world. 

Spendius 

And yet methinks there is another heart 
'Twould please you more to gain, than his to 
crush. 

Matho 
What meanst thou, Spendius? 

Spendius 
Have you forgotten Tanit's priestess? 
She shall be yours, if you but do my bid. 
Join forces with Narr Havas ; take the town ; 
Then make th3^self its King, and she your 
Queen. 

Matho 
[Carried away] 
Thy picture is too fair to gaze upon 



30 ^alambo 



Without succumbing to its ardent charms. 
Show me the way to gain Salambo's heart 
And you can play me hke a battle horn, 
Whose note shall be the echo of your wish, 
To rise and fall subservient to your will. 

Spendius 
If you but follow me, I'll show the way. 

Matho 

Then here I promise ever to obey. 
[Narr Havas comes forward] 

Spendius 

Matho! 

Forgive Narr Havas, who thy pardon seeks ; 

Join hands and let the past be dead forever. 

Matho 

[Aside] 
'Tis now hell's deepest note I sound. 

[Puts hand owt to Narr Havas] 
Narr Havas, take this hand; the past Is dead. 

Narr Havas 

[Grasping his hand] 
If e'er this hand prove false I hope 'twill drop. 



gtalamliD 3i 



Spendius 
Now that our hands are joined in friendship's 

clasp, 
Let's hie us to our work and lay the plans 
By which great Carthage shall be ground to 

dust. 

Matho 

'Tis meet that we do first gauge all our 

strength, 
The number and the weapons used by each, 
How many horse we have to skim the plains, 
How many elephants to crush the foe. 
The number of our archers, slingers, spears ; 
The strength of catapult and battering rams. 

Spendius 

'Tis wisely said ; in order to dispense, 
We first should know the power we have to 
spend. 

Matho 
What is thy force, Narr Havas, in the field.? 

Narr Havas 

This moment I command ten thousand men, 
And could I but return to my own realms 
That number I can double with great ease. 



^alamlio 



Besides, my woods are filled with elephants 
Which I will capture for our charging line. 

Matho 

How long, Narr Havas, would this trip require? 
We wish to act ere Hamilcar return. 

Narr Havas 

Methinks ten days should find us back. 
[Hesitating] 

Unless - — 

Matho 

[Excitedlt/] 
Seek not for obstacles before you start ; 
But should they rise, o'erleap them with your 

zeal. 

Narr Havas 
I will. 

Matho 
The coward looks for danger in the skies ; 
The brave face tempests' blasts, when they ar- 
rive. 

Narr Havas 
I'll face the devil should he thwart my path. 



^alambo 



Matho 

Then hie j^ou to your realms with all the speed 
That we shall wish you, as we here remain. 
My forces I'll divide in equal parts; 
Give one to Spendius, the other keep. 
Then you move on to Hippo Zarytus. 
Spendius must force the walls of Utica, 
And Carthage ! I shall care for thee myself. 

Narr Havas 

Fare thee well. 

The sooner gone, the earlier I'll return. 
[All shake hands^ 

Spendius 

Farewell; remember every moment mars our 
chance. 

Matho 
Farewell ; I'll live ten years in these ten days. 

Narr Havas 
Farewell. 

[Exit to L] 

Spendius / 

Now he is gone, our plans should be matured, 
So the tenth sun shall find us full equipped 
And all in readiness to face the foe. 



^iiUimbo 



Matho 

An occupation 'tis I hold most dear. 
Come, let's to work without delay. 

Spendius 

[Coming close to Matho and speoking in- 
tently] 
Matho ! a daring thought has crossed my mind, 
But 'tis entangled with a thousand fears. 
I almost dread to think what I would do, 
So great the risk, so slight the chance to win. 
Should it succeed, the battle were already won ; 
And should we fail, we ne'er would know defeat. 

Matho 

Speak out ! Dost take me for a silly child 
To shiver at the accent of a word? 

Spendius 
Hast thou e'er heard of the Zamph.'* 

Matho 
No. What may it be.? 

Spendius 

Of all things cherished in the city's walls. 
The Zamph, the sacred veil, is held most dear. 
The Gods are thought to hover round the spot 



©alamtjo 35 



Where it is kept, to shield from vulgar eyes. 
Within its folds the city's safety lies, 
Its strength and power centre round this charm ; 
The losing of this veil would mean defeat. 

Matho 

[Detei'minedli 
Then we must steal it, though we fly with wings. 
Where is it kept? 

Spendius 
In Tanit's temple ! There securely locked. 

Matho 

A lock might thwart a burglar in his theft, 
Whose cowardice drips from his finger ends, 
But locks to me are held in utter scorn. 

[Shaking swordl^ 
I hold the universal key. 

Spendius 
To use it were to fail. 

Matho 
Knowest thou the way? 

Spendius 
I know, but fear to show. 



36 S'alamfiD 



Matho 

[Ecccited] 
Then I will go alone. I'll swim the Bay, 
On Mercury's wings I'll scale the walls, 
I'll fight — 

Spendius 

\_Interrupting~\ 
I'll go. 
But ere we start, a promise I'll exact. 

Matho 
'Tis granted ere you speak. 

Spendius 

Then swear that in each word, each act, each 

deed, 
You will obey, nor importune a why. 

Matho 

[Holding up hand] 
I swear! 

Spendius 

E'en though thy judgment point a different 

way. 
And see but ruin in the path I lead, 
You'll still obey? 



©alamljo m 



Matho 
I swear! 

Spendius 
Wilt thou hut follow if I lead? 

Matho 
I will. 

There is no danger that I would not face 
Which points the way Salambo may be found. 
Bright rays of joy so far exceed weak fear, 
That, like the torch, is lost beneath the sun. 
With heaven in sight, oh! who would mark the 

path? 
Lead on! Lead on! — Shall I see her? 

I will. 

Now show the wall too high for me to scale. 



Spendius 



[Starting to L] 
Come. 



CURTAIN 



ACT II 

Scene 2 

The interior of the temple of Tanit. To de- 
scribe this would he impossible. It should he 
of a gorgeousness beyond words, with gold and 
precious stones, and should be copied from some 
ancient temple. The scene represents only a 
part of the temple. Half way up the stage 
there should he a silk curtain on a brass bar 
drawn across, high enough so that the audience 
coidd not see beyond. The object of the cur- 
tain was to screen the more sacred parts of the 
temple which were only used in prayer. 
Around the sides are placed a number of idols 
in gold. One of Tanit, Moloch, Itabetna and 
others. To the left is a willow couch covered 
with silk draping and pillows. Back of the cur- 
tain hidden from view there are more idols and 
demons and it is still more gorgeous. While 
directly in the rear centre, there is an altar, 
with a small door, behind xvhich the Zamph is 
locked. There should, be an opening in temple 
shoxving the moon. 

Full stage, silk curtains being drawn back. 
As the curtain rises it discloses Salamuo stand- 
38 



S^alamtjo 



ing in centre of stage, surrounded by four 
Priestesses gazing toward the moon, in prayer. 
All are dressed in flowing white robes. The 
Nurse is sitting on the couch. Room dimly 
lighted by a great chandelier in centre xvith col- 
ored lights. Time, night. 

Salambo 

{Praying^ 
O Rabetna, Astarte, Darcito ! 
Astorcth, Mylitte, Baalet, Tanit! 
By the deep and most hidden symbols, 
By the eternal silence of all nature, 
Ruler of the shadowy sea and sky, 
O Queen of humid things, all hail ! 

\^She prostrates herself on floor and is 
raised by Priestesses. Then continues^ 
How lightly dost thou turn within the skies, 
Around thee ever cling bright luminous rays, 
Like lovers, spellbound 'neath thy beauteous 

glance. 
The winds e'er change obedient to thy will, 
The dews descend but when thou bidst them to, 
Thy charm is felt beneath the sea's great depths, 
Where pearls are formed to gaze with longing 

eyes. 
But show thy face, and peace o'erspreads the 

world. 



40 @)aIambo 



The flower-cups close their brightest eyes in 

sleep, 
The waves are lulled to catch thy loving face, 
And men with softened hearts sink to repose. 
All nature 'neath thy smile is charmed to rest. 

[hi a fearful i'oice'\ 
But thou art a terrible mistress too, 
Monsters and frightful phantoms are thy work, 
Deceitful dreams are, too, thy whispered words. 
E'en death bows down obedient to thy will ! 
O Tanit, dost thou not love thy child? 

IPauses] 
But no, thou coursest in the azure sky 
And leave me here remain, all, all alone. 

[She drops her arms and the Priestesses 
come up and lead her to couch. The 
Nurse rises and Sai^ambo reclines on it. 
The Priestesses then draw curtains 
and retire, two to right and two to left] 
[To Nurse] 
Take up thy nebel, play a sacred air ; 
My heart is sad, life seems so vacant. 

[Aside] 
O Tanit ! I ne'er before felt so alone. 

[As Salambo reclines the Nurse, sitting 
on floor beside her, strikes a few chords 
on instrument] 
[Leaning forward excitedly] 
Hush! What is that noise I hear? 



©alamljo 41 



Nurse 

I hear no noise. 

The slightest breeze, a cloud, seems now to vex 
you. 

Salambo 

Are all the mercenaries beyond the walls.? 

Nurse 
They are, and there I hope they'll e'er remain. 

Salambo 

So well do I — lThmki7ig'\ And yet . . . 
and yet. 

Nurse 

O Mistress, it is time thou shouldst now choose 
A husband from among the elders' sons. 
Disquietude would vanish then, in his embrace. 

Salambo 

They all but horrify, the elders' sons ; 
Their wild and vapid laughter but disgusts. 

Nurse 
But love will change those feelings to delight. 

Salambo 
No chattering magpie could I take to heart. 



42 @)alamlJO 



The man I love must like the eagle soar, 
Who downward gazes with a broadening view, 
Whose height precludes the smaller things from 

sight. 
And scorns to light save on the mountain's top. 

Nurse 
What more? 

Salambo 
[Thoughtful] 
He must be brave, nor fear the world to face 
And challenge all against his single sword. 
He must be true to any cause he takes. 
He must be honest. Sacred be his word. 

Nurse 
[Tauntingly] 
Still more? 

Salambo 
[Plaijfulhj] 
Why, nurse, I've just begun. He must be 

strong, 
Yet must his strcngili so blend with gentleness. 
As ripening fruit beneath the sun's warm rays. 

Nurse 
[Inti'i'rupt'mg] 
Enough ! Enough ! 
Thou speakest of a god and not a man. 



^alambo 



Salambo 
I dreamed a man like that. 

Nurse 
'Twas but a dream. 

Salambo 

[Tliought fully, half to herself] 
Perchance it was. I know not yet of love, 
Though sometimes in the dreary hours of night 
A feeling seems to permeate my soul 
Which throbs with ecstasy beyond control. 
Like a fiery globe my heart doth swell, 
Rising in my breast as if to suffocate. 
I try to free myself, then fall supine. 
And conquered lie enveloped by some charm, 
Which thrills the very fountain of my life. 

\^Stops, then goes on dreamingly] 
I long to lose myself in the night mists, 
Or be consumed by the rippling fountain. 
Oh ! that my body were a ray of light 
That I might glide through space to thee, O 

Tanit ! 

[Turning to Nurse] 
Leave me. — Tonight I'll rest within these 

walls. 

Nurse 

[Alarmed] 
My child, it is unsafe. Here, all alone? 



44 ©alamlio 



Salambo 

Not all alone ; I'll be 'neath Tanlt's eye. 

I wish to pray again before the morn. 

The nightingale's soft hymn shall end my 

dreams, 
And then together we will pray and sing. 

[Stops] 
Draw round my couch the screen, and say good 

night. 

NUESE 

[Hesitatingi 
But — 

Salambo 

Do as I bid — good night. 

Nurse 

[Drazving screen around cou^h'] 
I'll do as you command, but I have fears. 

Salambo 
Good night. 

[Nurse eo'its to L. and Salambo sleeps'] 
[Matho and Spendius quietly enter on 
tiptoe from R. Spendius leads, Matho 
follows. They speak in low voices] 

Spendius 
[Frightened] 
Are we followed.'^ 



©alamljo 46 



No. 

That guard? 



Mat HO 
Spendius 



Matho 

I choked him thus. 

[Showing icith hajidsy smiling^ 
Before his voice had time to reach his lips. 

Spendius 
But he'll come to, and give alarm. 

Ma Tiro 

Not on this earth will he cry out again. 
He's taken passage 'cross the river Styx. 

Spendius 
Did that rolling stone strike thee? 

Matho 

[Indifferently'] 
I changed its course, though 'twere a pebhle 
As wildly it bounded down before me. 

[Both nou) in C, look around] 

Spendius 

[Being a Roman Jias neither belief nor re- 
spect for their gods. Smiling] 



46 S^alamlio 



This is their sacred temple ; gaze about ; 
Their wooden gods seem frightened at our sight. 
Poor fools to worship such false things as these. 
[Goes over to L. and picking up a small 
idol stands it on its head] 

Matho 
[Being a barbarian has fear of the mys- 
terious. Trembling] 
I bid thee, Spendius, cease thy sacrilege. 
It is not well thus to offend their gods. 

Spendius 
They are but wooden figures, nothing more. 

Matho 
I would not lightly speak of aught that's sa- 
cred. 
Where is the veil.? 

Spendius 
We must still pass beyond these screens. 
[Pulls curtains back] 

Matho 
[Gazing at idols and trembling with fear] 
Ye gods protect me ere I fall. 

Spendius 
Come. 



^alambo 47 



Matho 

\_Defiantly'\ 
I'll go no farther ; when I swore to follow 
I overgauged my courage, or I lied. 
Behold these creatures, see their fiendish eyes 
Whose glance would freeze the blood of any 

vian. 
Whate'er is human without fear I'll face, 
But Gods and Demons are beyond my mark. 
Let all the world cry out and jeer, coward! 
Here Matho stands ; he fears to tread beyond. 

Spendius 
[Rushes up to altar, breaks door open be- 
hind which the Zamph is locked. A 
great flood of light comes out as though 
emitted from the veil. Very excitedly, 
pointing] 
The Zamph ! The Zamph ! See ! 

[Matho, standing spellbound y is enveloped 
by the light from Zamph] 
Conquered Carthage ! Thou art subdued at 

last. 
My goblet of revenge is overflowing. 
Grasp it, INIatho ; the battle now is won. 

[INIatho, buoyed up by Spendius, rushes 
forxvard and seizes the veil. Wrapping 
it about him, he gains coiirage in its 
folds. Then turjis] 



48 ^alamlJD 



Mat HO 

Behold the monarch of the universe; 

All fear, all dread from now is ever dead. 

I am the ruler of both heaven's vaults, 

As well as hell's deep and appalling pits. 

Their gods must smile when I but bid them to ; 

These loathsome demons cringe at my com- 
mand. 

All on this earth, all hidden in her bowels, 

Must bow subservient to my august will. 

O Hamilcar, beware ! Thy day has come. 

[While Matho is making last speech Sa- 
LAMBO looks from behind screen; then 
rising stands in front of it, spellbound. 
They do not see her, but she sees them~\ 

Spendius 
Come, let us now with double speed return, 
And hide our trophy safely in our camp. 
[They walk down stage] 

Matho 
Return and leave Salambo in these walls? 
Have we but come for this? 

[Looks at veil contemptuously'] 

Spendius 
We have, and with it you're invincible. 
Have patience. 



@)alamtia 49 



Matho 

What? Patience! That word again! From 
you? 

[Spendius sees Salambo and drawing his 
dagger he rushes at her^ holding it over 
head^ 

Spendius 

One word, and in your heart I sheathe this 
blade. 

[Matho, seeing hiiriy rushes forward and 
grappling with hi/rn throws him aside^ 

Matho 

\^In fury] 
Fiend ! 
Hadst thou so much as touched her robe, you'd 

die. 
I'd kill thee though thou hadst ten million lives, 
With but one wish ; thou hadst ten million more. 

[Turns to Salambo] 
Salambo, I have come. 

Salambo 
[Fearful'\ 
What wouldst thou here? 

Matho 
To claim thy love. 



50 ^alamlio 



Salambo 

^Bewildered] 
I fear thee. Thou art our enemy. 

Mat HO 
If enemy, at best a vanquished foe. 

Salambo 

What meanest thou.'^ 

Matho 

Thy frown within my breast inspires more 

dread 
Than all the armies that bestride the earth. 

Salambo 
What hast thou on thy shoulder.? 

Matho 

The Zamph. 

Salambo 

[Overawed] 
The sacred veil ! 

Matho 

It is, and all is yours, but for your heart. 
Salamho, I love you ! 
[Drops on hnee] 



©alamtio 51 



Salambo 
[Pointing] 
I know not what jou mean. Go ! I hate you ! 
[Matho rises and makes a motion as 
though he were going to seize her] 

Spp:ndius 

[In commanding voice] 
I hold you to your oath. Come. 

Matho 

[Turning to Spendius; there is a conflict 
wit hill between desire and honor] 
My oath? 

Spendius 

[Calmly] 
Your oath. 

Matho 
Did I give it.? My oath? 

Spendius 

You did. Your solemn oath. 

Matho 

You hold me to it? 

Spendius 
I do. 



52 ^alamfio 



Matho 

[Hesitating^ hut honor triumphs~\ 
My honor first — I'll keep my oath. 

[Turns and follows Spendius. Exits to 
R] 

Salambo 

[As tliey disappear she cries out^ 
Help! Help! 

[Curtain drops hut rises immediately and 
discloses Salambo excitedly talking to 
Sahabarian, the High Priest. A num- 
her of Soldiers have come iii answer to 
her cry^ 

Salambo 

[Excitedly] 
Have they escaped? 

Sahabarian 

They have, my child, and with them all our 

glory. 
Twice, twice a sword was raised above his head 

[Salambo cringes'] 
That might have cleft him from the crown to 

crutch, 
But harmless fell, swayed by the sacred charm. 

Salambo 
Then they're beyond the walls.? 



©alamlio 53 



Sahabarian 

Alas! They are! 

[Salambo shows by her expression she is 
relieved^ 

\_Half to himself y half to Salambo] 
Ah me ! Ah me ! I fear the end has come 
And thou, O Carthage, must succumb at 

last, 
Disintegrate to common dust and clay. 
Our palaces and temples will be razed, 
All our fertile fields will be abandoned, 
And given back to the wild beasts again. 
We thought our power had immortal grown. 
And now we see withal how weak it is. 
The signs are true, I viewed them with mine 

eyes. 
Upon the sun great spots of blood are seen. 
The moon's pale face assumes a livid hue. 
As though 'twere in the latest grasp of death, 
And all the stars do shiver in dismay. 
The end has come, the end has come at last. 

Salambo 

Thy words, though veiled in mystery, give 
fear. 

Sahabarian 
Thy fear, my child, canot effect a cure. 



54 @)alamt)o 



Salambo 

[Boldli/] 
'Tis need alone gives birth to strength ; speak 

out, 
And give the full extent of our misfortunes. 

Sahabarian 
We'll be defeated. 

SAI.AMBO 

Mj father too? 

Sahabarian 
He too will fall before the veil. 

Salambo 

I Heroic alh/] 
My father! Hamllcar defeated? Never! 
The blood that courses through his veins Is mine, 
And never yet has fear congealed that stream. 
Nor has its path been turned by obstacles. 
It onward plunges like the tidal wave 
And all before It must succumb or fall. 
If it be true, the Gods have angered grown. 
And would cast vengeance on our heads for this ; 
Then It Is meet the veil should be procured, 
And I ! I ! shall go, and bring It back ! 

CURTAIN 



ACT III 



ACT III 

Scen£: Same as Scene 1 of Act II except- 
ing that it is a full stage. There are several 
tents dotted about. In the centre of stage 
stands IMatiio's tent. A beautiful red canopy 
with the curtains well back, showing the interior. 
Within but directly at entrance there is a low 
couch covered xnth furs. Shields, armor, and 
weapons are strewn about floor. The Zamph 
is in the tent attached to a spear. Light 
should be emitting from it, which could be ef- 
fected by means of an electric bulb. 

As curtain rises Matho and Spendius are 
disclosed standing before the tent. Time, late 
afternoon. 

Matho 

These ten days will last to eternity, 
I feel I ne'er shall live to see their end. 

Spendius 
Nine have already passed, to-morrow is the day. 

Matho 

[Impatient^ 
But why have we these nine long days delayed ! 

57 



58 ©alambo 



Narr Havas now may come or go, who cares? 

[Pointing at veil^ 
There is the Zamph. We are invincible. 

Spendius 
I fear the charms within its mystic folds 
Are more the mind's, than a reality. 

Matho 

Thou doubtest then its power? 

Spendius 
[Sententiously^ 
I doubt the power which lies within itself, 
I believe its charm, so far as they have faith. 

Matho 
I fail to comprehend your mystic phrase. 
You Romans ever juggle with your words. 
As though their object were but to conceal. 
I know I believe the power of the veil. 

Spendius 
And so do I, supported by strong arms. 
Take heart, to-morrow is so short a space. 

Matho 
[^Sitting down on couch at tent entrance y 
thinking^ 
To-morrow? Spendius, were you e'er in love? 



^alamlio 59 



Spendius 

No, never. 

Matho 

Then thou canst never gauge or measure time; 
Its chief and only element's desire. 
A hundred years may seem but as a day, 
And but one second last a century. 
To-morrow is eternity ! 

Spendius 
If that's its gift, I care not for its charm. 

Matho 

\_Risi71g and handling sword] 
Hadst thou not interfered, she were here now. 
Wrapped in the Zamph, I'd brought her on my 

back. 

Spendius 
i\Iy only wish was in thy safety. 

Matho 
With such stakes up, no risk could be too great. 

Spendius 

Thou wouldst have thrown thy power away, 
To gratify but one short moment's whim. 



60 ^alambo 



Matho 

\_Smiling'] 
Again, again, false measurer of time. 

[^Then, more seriously^ 
I shall not hold thee to account, or blame ; 
Thou art honest, and hast served me well. 

Spendius 

See, there the sun is setting in the west. 
'Tis but to sleep, to-morrow then is here. 
Yet I must spend this night upon the march. 
'Twere better that I make a start anon. 
For Utica is full three leagues away. 
What thinkest thou? 

Matho 

[Com'manding'\ 
Call forth tl\y forces and prepare to march. 
Thy path will be a rough and drear}^ one. 
Allow no fires lighted on the way, 
And ever keep within the deepest shades. 
We should not wish to warn them of our plans. 
With the early dawn gird on thy courage. 
Bid patience, judgment, all farewell, and strike. 
Strike! With all the power thy friendship 

speaks. 
Strike ! Every head shall weld the link anew. 
Rich is the field whereon to prove your love. 



©ahimbo 6i 



Ikit let your words be changed to deeds, you'll 

wade, 
Full belly deep, in Carthaginian blood. 

Spendius 

[Shaking hands with Matho] 
Fare thee well, Matho; when next we meet 
FU hail thee King of Carthage. 

Matho 

Fare thee well. 

[Spendius iwifs to L. Matho walking 
up stage to R. accosts officer on guard \ 
Is the guard placed for the night? 

Officer 
It is. 

Matho 
Is all in readiness to strike at dawn? 

Officer 
We wait but for the sun. 

Matho 

Have all the blades been ground to keenest 

edge ? 
Have stones been rounded for the slingcrs' 

hands ? 



62 Salamlio 



Officer 
E^ch detail has been thought of and prepared. 

Matho 
Then have me called an hour before the sun. 

Officer 

I will. 

[Matho goes hack to his tent and sits on 
edge of couch. It begins to darken^ 

Matho 

\^Soliloquy^ 
The plans are laid, ah! would that morn were 

here, 
That we might prove their worth in execution. 
There's where the weakness and the danger lies. 
On that we do ourselves, we can rely ; 
But when dependence rests in others' hands, 
How know we then it will be well performed.^ 
And one mistake will frustrate all our work. 
Spcndius I trust, for he is loyal. 
But Narr Havas — he struck me in the back 
And he who yields to treachery once 
Should never more be trusted by fair man. 

[^Pauses^ 
But wherefore should I steep my mind in doubt ; 
The die is cast, and by it I must stand. 



@)aIambo 63 



This thought had ne'er enthralled my mind save 
that 

I ne'er before drew sword for so great prize. 

'Tis thou, Salambo, thou the mighty stake ; 

But I shall gain thee though I wade in gore, 

Until the plains appear one sea of blood. 

I'll have thee though I have to clear the world 

Of every man that walks upon its face. 

The Gods, should they oppose, I'll too defy. 

Fighting through heavens high vaults and hell's 
deep pits, 

Till naught remain alive, save you and I. 

\_Rises and proceeds to loose curtains and 
close his tent. Takes off sword^ 

My mind's made up, all doubting clouds dis- 
pelled. 

There rests the Zamph, to-morrow'll prove its 
charm. 

And now to rest, and then, to fight and win. 

Or die ! 

[Steps in his tent and curtains closely 
[Guard to right and rear being relieved^ 

First Soldier 

The watch has been a quiet one. 
All is well. 

Second Soldier 
Are there any orders.^ 



64 §»aIamlJO 



First Soldier 

Keep close eye on Carthage, mark every light, 
And wake the chief an hour before the sun. 

Second Soldier 

I'll follow out the orders. You're relieved. 

First Soldier 

Good night. 

[Exit to R] 

Second Soldier 

Good night. 

[ Walks up and down on guard. Drawing 
his bow~\ 
Who comes there? 

[No answer^ 
Speak, ere my arrow flies. 

Salambo 

[Without] 
Friend ! 

[Salambo in a gold Utter carried by two 
slaves is brought in from Right. She 
is dressed in a most gorgeous and volup- 
tuous costume, showing every bodily 
charm. A veil is over her face. As 
the slaves set down the litter she steps 
out and litter exits] 



©alamljo 65 



Oh, do not draw your bow upon a friend ; 
Or if an enemy, not one you'ld challenge. 

Soldier 
Who art thou? 

Salambo 
A woman who would see thy chief, Matho. 

Soldier 

He sleeps in his tent. I'll call him anon. 

[Soldier goes to Matho's tent and calls 

Salambo 

[Alone, she loses courage^ 
Have I o'erstepped the boundaries of my sex? 
This surely is no w^ork for woman's hands, 
But rather that of sanguinary men. 
Perchance they may imprison me, or worse. 
I've heard their captives oft are crucified. 
And dangle on the cross a prey for birds. 
Ah me ! Ah me ! I would I were not here. 
Courage! This is no time for fear. Avaunt ! 
Besides, great Matho, though our enemy, 

[Hesitates^ 
I would he were our friend. 

[Matho comes from his tent and walks 



66 ©alam&o 



toward Salambo •while the Soldier re- 
mains to draw curtains^ 

Matho 

[/« an indifferent manner. He is yet not 
wide awakel 
Who art thou? 

SAI.AMBO 

A woman. 

Matho 

[Irritated] 
What woman? 

Salambo 

One thou wouldst not shun. 

Matho 

What wouldst thou? 

Salambo 
Take me to thy tent. 

Matho 

[Leading the way'] 
Follow ! 

[Aside] 
Is this a dream? I almost fear to wake. 



©alamtio 67 



[^Fhey stand in front of tentl^ 
Now that I have obeyed, I bid thee speak. 
Who art thou? 

[Salambo sees the Zamph in tent, and a 
cry escapes her. She steps towards it, 
while Matho in a rage stamps his foot~\ 
Wherefore hast thou come? — Speak! 

Salambo 

[^Dropping her veil and facing him as she 
points to the Zamph'\ 
To take it ! 

[She pauses and Matho, looking at her, 
is overpowered by her beauty. She con- 
tinues in commanding voice] 

I demand it in the name of Tanit ! 

I saw you once within my garden walls, 

Your hand it was that spread destruction there, 

With fiery brand destroying all before you. 

It was thy hand that slew the sacred apes. 

And not content with sacrilege, you murdered 

All my trusted slaves. 

[Matho, who does not seem to listen, 
touches her as though entranced'] 

Matho 
How beautiful thou art ! How beautiful ! 



68 ^alamlio 



Salambo 

And still not satisfied with all jour crimes 
You stole the Zamph, and in its sacred folds 
Seek courage from the Gods you did offend ; 
And last and worst, insulted me while there. 

Matho 
[Dazed] 
Insult you? No, alone, but worship. 

Salambo 
I hate you and from all the Gods I now 
Invoke a curse upon your head. 

Matho 
Invoke a curse, but do not curse thyself. 
And every anathema hurled at me 
By nature's law rests on thy head as well. 
For she, beyond our power has made us one. 
'Tis true I stole the Zamph, but with one 

thought, 
To place it on the shoulders where it belongs. 
Art thou not more beautiful than Tanit? 

Salambo 
[Dazed] 
I more beautiful than Tanit ! 

Matho 
In forming thee beauty was exhausted ! 
Come near, fear naught ! 



^alambo 



[SaivVmbo comes close to him and he con- 
tinues in pathetic voice^ 
Once I was but a common mercenary, 
With but one wish, and that one wish was gold ; 
'Twas all I knew, hence it was all I could desire. 
As yet my heart was all congealed, 
As though it dwelt within the polar zone. 
Surrounded by perpetual snow and ice. 
At last the sun peeped o'er the mountain top. 
My heart grew warm beneath its soothing rays, 
And blossomed into love. 
And now where'er I am, that one thought 

haunts me. 
No more for gold, I fight alone for love. 

[Salambo shows she is affected^ 
Before my sword men fall like sheaves of grain, 
I scatter the sarissae with my hand. 
The catapults seem powerless to kill me. 
And all bow down subservient to my will. 
'Tis true I would thy city's walls destroy. 
But not for gold, but for a prize more fair 
Than all the gems the earth did e'er contain. 
Knowest thou the prize .^ 'Tis thou alone I 

love ! 

[Salambo though nearly overpowered re- 
covers herself and points to the Zamph] 

Salambo 
I shall return to Carthage with the Zamph. 



70 ©alambo 



Matho 

\^Loses control of himself in a rage. Sa- 
LAMBO cowers and steps backli 

Thou wouldst return with it to Carthage? 

No power in heaven or hell can draw thee hence. 

You belong to me, and I shall hold you here. 

'Tis my turn now, and I shall use it well. 

Call on your father or the elders to protect. 

I do defy them with a million men, 

I will overthrow and burn your city. 

A single house, a tree, a stone, shall not remain. 

And should my men but fail me, I will draw. 

From out the woods, wild beasts and lions to my 
aid. 

Do not attempt to fly or I will kill you ! 

[He goes close to her as though to detain. 
Then suddenly/ drops on his knees before 
her^ 

Salambo 
Matho! 

Matho 

Forgive me, oh ! forgive me for this crime. 
Thy breath passed o'er my face as you were 

speaking, 
And I delighted in it as a dying man, 
Who prone upon his back drinks of the spring. 
Crush me, that I may feel your feet. 



©alambo 71 



Curse me, that I may hear your voice. 

But do not go ! 

I will renounce all other gods but you. 

Oh, take the Zamph, but with it take me too. 

Salambo 

\_L0si71g control of herself'\ 
No more ! No more ! Matho ! 
Art thou not our enemy .'^ 

Matho 

Not thine, I swear; but wouldst thou have re- 
venge, 
But speak and like a slave I'll follow you. 
Within the walls to be immured in chains. 
Or cast in dungeon, there to die and rot. 

Salambo 

To view that sight I should there ne'er return. 

Matho 

But since thou wouldst not see me tortured thus 
By other hands, wouldst thou my torturer be.? 

Salambo 
Never ! Never ! 

Matho 
They can inflict but shallow fleeting pains, 
While thine sink deep down to the very soul. 



72 ©alamfto 



Salambo 
I conjure thee to say no more. 

Matho 

[Still kneeling puts his arm around her 
xcaist. Talks passionately'] 
Beyond Gadees full twenty days by sea 
There is an isle whose banks are strewn with 

gold; 
Huge flowers, full of perfume, swing mid-air. 
Fuming incense like eternal censers. 
Great citron trees, more lofty than our cedars, 
Raise their proud heads, like pillars for the 

skies. 
Within whose boughs most beauteous birds do 

sing 
In sweetest notes eternal happiness. 
I'll find this isle, if you'll but go with me. 
I'll make you Queen of all these fairy realms, 
And as a slave will drop before 3'our feet. 
Oh, fly ! Oh, fly with me ! 

Salambo 
^ly heart would dare that which my mind 

should shun. 
Love prompts to fly, wliile duty bids me stay. 
Am I not great Ilamllcar's daughter? 

]\Iatho 
His daughter only, but thou art my life! 



©iilambo 73 



Let's Hoc beyond this world of strife and care 
And build a new one but for you and me ! 

Sai^muo 
Matho ! Matho ! 

Matho 

My every joy, my life, will be to serve, 
My heaven shall be within those eirelino- arms! 
And love, triumphant love, life's fountainhead ! 
Shall reign alone — Supreme ! 

Salambo 

l^Swaying to and fro completely overcome 
hif emotioUy stannners] 
I — I — I — 

Matho 

[Throxcing his arms open xdlilly'] 
Come! 

[Sal^vmho conquered sinks doKm in his em- 
brace^ 



CURTAIN 



ACT IV 



ACT IV 

Scene 1 

Scene: Same as Act III. It is still darky 
the only light being emitted from the Zamph in 
the tent. 

As curtain rises it discloses Matho asleep on 
the couch. The curtains of tent are drawn 
hack and Salambo is standing at the threshold, 
intently gazing at him. To the right and rear 
a Guard is slowly walking back and forth. 
Salambo sneaks to right and seeing Guard 
quickly retreats. Then she sneaks to left and 
sees the way clear. Returning to tent en- 
trance, she sees Matho's dagger hanging to 
side. She gives a startled look, then pauses 
and thinks. She then goes up to dagger and 
slowly draws it from its sheath, looking at 
Matho. With the dagger in her hand she 
again looks on either side of tent to see she is 
not watched, and returning, gazes at Matho 
as if trying to make up her mind. Then 
quietly sneaking in tent she stands over him 
and raises the dagger to stab him. 
77 



78 @)alambp 



Matho 

[Turning and speaking in sleep~\ 
Salambo — My Queen — My Goddess. 

[Fearfully she looks to see if he has wak- 
ened, hut seeing he still sleeps, her feel- 
ings give way and she drops the dagger. 
She then quietly goes over to Zamph 
and taking it from spear wraps it about 
her shoulders. She returns to Matho 
and gazing down lovingly upo7i him for 
a few moments, stoops and kisses him. 
Then steals out of tent and exits to L^ 

[The Guard during this scene hearing the 
dagger drop comes doxmi stage to R. and 
sees her. Thinking it a beautiful spirit 
he stands spellbound till she leaves, then 
goes back to where he was before. All 
is quiet for a minute, as it gradually 
grows light. Dawn is approaching^ 

Captain 

[Entering from R., addressing Guard] 
How goes the watch? 

Guard 

[In a frightened whisper'] 
Thou wouldst not believe what I have seen this 
night. 



©alamtio 79 



I scarce can believe, though viewed by mine own 
eyes. 
\^His voice seems to die away in fright^ 

Matho 

[Slowly waking^ 
Salambo, where art thou? — I dreamed of 

heaven. 

[Reaches out^ 
Salambo ? 

[Sits wpl 
B}^ all the Gods, Salambo ! Salambo ! 

[Looking round dazed^ 
She's gone ! And hell envelops all the world ! 

[Jumps up and calls owf ] 
Captain of the Guard. 

Captain 

[Coming over^ 
What wouldst thou, O Matho.? 

Matho 

[In rage] 
I would o'erturn the earth, strip inside out. 
And crush the whole to dust so wondrous fine, 
That earth, and sea, and rock, would but ap- 
pear 
As one huge mass of hideous filth ! 



80 ©ahimlio 



Captain 
[Frightened^ 
My lord — 

Mat HO 
[Ecccitedlyl 
Did the guard see naught about my tent? 

Captain 

He claims to have seen a wondrous sight, 
That filled him with such fear he dared not call. 

Matho 

Speak ! Speak ! Shout forth thy words in vol- 
leys. 

Captain 

A beauteous spirit hovered round thy tent, 
About whose form a fleecy cloud entwined. 
She, bending, touched her lips upon your brow, 
Then muttered a few words he could not hear, 
And seemed to float away upon the air. 

Matho 

{Tenderly to himself] 
She kissed me ere she left ! — She kissed me. 

[Savageli/ to Captain] 
Have the guard killed at once, — crucify him. 
Torture him with every pain flesh can feel. 



©ahimtiD 81 



That when his spirit's gone to hell 
The tortures there will be relief to what he suf- 
fered here. 

Captain 
Your orders shall be obeyed. 

Matho 

[Excitedly ptdling on his battle harness] 
Now let the trumpets sound their fiercest cry, 
And call the men to arms to storm the town. 
To-night shall find us in the city's walls, 
Else fighting still beneath the moon's pale rays. 
And we shall fight straight on through day and 

night 
Until the gates are opened to our cry. 
Or else the sun looks down on death alone. 

[Di'azcing sword] 
Blow! Blow the horns, and all the heavens 

flood. 
With cries of vengeance and with shrieks for 

blood! 



DROP 



ACT IV 

Scene 2 

A different part of the field, nearer city. 
Few changes are necessary. The stage should 
he cleared of tents, and rear drop should he 
changed. The Moon Mountains in distance. 
Time, day. 

As curtain rises it discloses Hamilcar and 
General Gisco in full hattle regalia, talking. 
Sentinel walking hack and forth in rear. 

Gisco 

It is a lucky day that sees you back, 

For we are sorely pressed and need all aid, 

And most of all your presence and your hand. 

Hamilcar 

I hurried back with every speed I could 
The moment I received 3^our warning note. 

Gisco 

And your arrival's in the nick of time. 

Last night a force marched on to Utica. 

To judge from noise we hear within their camp 

I fear that Matho will give fight to-day. 

83 



©alamfto ss 



Hamilcar 

[Determined] 
Well, we are ready to dispute the ground. 

Gisco 
[^Going close to Hamilcar and talking sus- 
piciously] 
Narr Havas for the past ten da3^s has gone. 
He acted strangely ere he left, as though 
Some weighty problem lurked within his brain. 
This morning he's returned with double force 
And just beyond the walls has pitched his camp. 
There in his tent Achilles-like he sulks. 

Hamilcar 
[Unsuspicious] 
'Tis but an 111 suspicion, nothing more. 
He doubtless grieves but for my safety. — 
Has he been notified of my return? 

Gisco 
I sent a messenger an hour past. 
Hamilcar 
[Confidently] 
Then he'll arrive before your man return. 

Narr Havas 
[Entering from R. rear and addressing 
Guard] 
Bid Hamilcar I would see him. 



84 ^alamfio 



Who art thou? 



Narr Havas. 



Guard 



Narr Havas 



Guard 



\_Salutmg^ 
Most noble sir, I will obey. 

]^Goes down stage to Ha]\wlcar. Salut- 
ing] 
Narr Havas would see thee. 

[Hamilcar turns and seeing Narr Havas 
walks over to him quickly, taking his 
hand] 

Hamilcar 

Narr Havas, is it thou.'^ 

It gives me joy to see thee thus returned. 

I ne'er did believe thou wouldst desert thy 

friend. 
Ingratitude had then eclipsed itself. 
And all of friendship but a hollow mockery. 

Narr Havas 

[As they walk down stage to C. together, 
Narr Havas seems to hesitate, then an- 
swers sent entlou sly] 



^alambo 85 



'Tis well that we should stand by friends — 

and yet, 
'Tis meet that we should nurse our cause. 

Hamilcar 

[Surprised] 
What meanest thou, Narr Havas? 
I and thy father did play together as boys, 
Thou as a child wouldst dangle round my knees. 
I almost feel as though thou art mine own. 

Narr Havas 

These are fair words, but words are words 

alone, 
They answer to bring water to the eyes, 
But then to draw the sword there should be 

deeds. 

Hamilcar 

What wouldst thou.? 

I should not wish to play the miser thus. 
In offering aught that rests within my hands. 
For being mine, it follows it is yours. 

Narr Havas 
Thou hast a daughter.? 

Hamilcar 
\Not comprehending] 
'Tis true, and what of that.? 



86 ©alamliD 



Narr Havas 
Thou dost not comprehend me yet. 

Hamilcar 

Thou wouldst have her? ^ 

Thou hast but read my wish in thy desire. 
I'd hoped for this when you were but a child. 
Come to my arms. Thou'lt be my son in fact. 
[They embrace. Gisco during this scene 

has been walking about as if looking for 

the enemy^ 

Narr Havas 

But has Salambo been apprised? 
Will she consent? 

Hamilcar 
My wishes are her laws. 

Soldier 

[Rushing in from L. breathless, addresses 
Gisco] 
The enemy are marching toward our walls. 
[Exit to L. on run^ 

Gisco 

[Turning to Hamilcar] 
The enemy are marching toward the walls. 



Salamlio 87 



Hamilcar 

[To Narr Havas] 
Now let's to work. 
Before the bridal bed is laid upon, 
We first must fight, that we may rest in peace. 

[To Gisco] 
The enemy approaches? 

Gisco 
It does. 

Hamilcar 

Then we'll give them a royal welcome. 

[To Narr Havas] 
Thou knowest Spendius has marched on Utica. 
Haste thither with thine army at all speed 
And fall upon his rear like thunderbolts. 

Narr Havas 

[As he turns to quickly exit to R~\ 
I'm gone ! 

Could I but travel on desire's wings, 
The north gale were a laggard in my path. 

[Ea:its to right on run^ 

Hamilcar 

[To Gisco] 
Remain thou here. Dispute each foot of 
ground, 



88 ^alam&o 



But should thy forces be too sorely pressed 
Drop back upon the walls. — You'll find me 
there. 

[Exits quickly to Ll^ 

[Gisco looks to left rear at enemy. An 
Officer rushes in and stands before 
Gisco for orders^ 

Gisco 

Have the catapults all charged with rocks, 
And see the archers are prepared to draw. 
Hold back the elephants until the last. 

Officer 
I will obey. 

[Starts to exit to L. and rear hut is called 
hack^ 

Gisco 

Bring forth my battle charger all equipped, 
I'll measure swords with that proud dog to-day. 

Officer 

My lord, I will. 

[Exit L. in haste^ 

[Enter Salambo from right rear on a 
white horse led by Sahabarian. Sh£ is 
dressed like a warrior and carries a 
sword] 



gialambo 89 



Gisco 

[^Turns suddenly and sees them. Sur- 
prised] 
What dost thou here? 

Sahabarian 

She would come hence. 

I did not dare to let her come alone. 

Salambo 

I feared to be thus caged within the walls, 
For should the city fall, retreat were vain, 
And who can answer for those savage hands. 
[Officer rushes in from L. excitedly^ 

Officer 
The left wing's giving way. They press us 
hard. 

Gisco 
My horse! 

Officer 

Here ! Here ! 

[Both rush out to L. Salambo on horse 
comes to C] 

Salambo 
Is the veil within the temple.? 



90 ©alamfio 



Sahabarian 

It is, my child; I placed it there myself 
And therefore 'tis no need that we do fly. 
The city's walls and gates are now secure, 
Nor need we fear the mercenary dogs. 

Salambo 

Dogs ! What meanest thou by that foul word, 

dogs ? 
All Carthage with her boasted power 
Has ne'er produced a man like Matho. 
Take all the elders' sons and lump in one. 
They jointly would not form a man like him. 

Sahabarian 

My child, my child, what meanest thou? 
Is he not our most hated enemy? 

Salambo 

'Tis true he is our enemy. 

But 'tis not just to thus malign a foe. 

To hate is but to circumscribe ourselves. 

The noble mind should have a broader view. 

Look out and see what's happening on the field ; 

My eyes are timid to the sight of blood. 

[Sahabarian goes over to L. and looks m 
direction of hattle~\ 



^alamljo 91 



Sahabarian 

Our serried left wing still retreats, 
Like fallen leaves before a winter's blast. 
The enemy, ajl flushed with victory, fly, 
Led on by one upon a snow white horse. 

Salambo 

\_Ea:citedly^ 
Is it Matho? 

Sahabarian 
I cannot tell, the distance is too great. 

Salambo 

What! 

Not know Matho from all other men.'' 

Then thou art blind indeed. 

Sahabarian 
It is he, my child. I know him by his mount. 

Salambo 
Looks he sad? Or is but anger on his face? 

Sahabarian 

It is a fatal look, so desperate. 

Yet so sad, it hurts the eye to gaze on him. 



92 S)alam6o 



Salambo 

[Aside] 
Would I were by thy side. 
[To Sahabarian] 

Where are they now? 

Sahabarian 

[ Very excited^ 
Now Gisco has arrived. They meet — He 
falls — 



Salambo 



[Excited] 
Who? Who? 



Sahabarian 

Gisco. 

The enemy are charging on the walls — 

The gates are opened — 

Thy father with his forces rushes out ! 

Salambo 
Speak! Speak! What now? 

Sahabarian 

They meet ! 

A cloud of dust o'erspreads the plain — 
Blood spouts like fountains from the headless 
trunks. — 



©alamljo 93 



Salambo 

Matho! How fares he? 

Sahabaeian 

Thy father's driven back — 

He turns, and rushes for the gates — 

Matho still mounted on his horse in hot pursuit. 

The gates are closed. — 

Salambo 

[Aside] 
My father driven back and I rejoice! 

Sahabaeian 

[Looking in another direction and sud- 
denly/ startled^ 
What is that in the distance? 

[Looks] 
It approaches with lightning speed — 
Narr Havas with his force has routed Spendius, 

Salambo 
Narr Havas ! Didst thou say Narr Havas? 

Sahabaeian 
I did — He's almost here. 
Salambo 
Traitor ! 



94 ^alamtio 



Sahabarian 

The gates again are opened — 
Thy father rushes out — 
The mercenaries are surrounded — 
Now, Matho, you are trapped ! 

Salambo 

Cowards ! Would they overpower him by num- 
bers. 

Sahabarian 

The enemy are in retreat — 
Matho has fallen from his horse. 

Salambo 

[Striking her horse, rushes to Sahabar- 
ian] 
Where ? Where ? 

Sahabarian 

He rises to his feet again — His horse is 

killed. 
They come this way — we must depart. 



Salambo 



[Herokally^ 
I'll stay ! 



©alamfto 95 



Sahabarian 

[Taking hold of horse and leading him to 
R. of stage] 
Hast thou forgotten who thou art? 
Thou shalt not stay. — I command thee in the 
name of Tanit ! 
[Exit to R] 

[A few arrows fall on stage and Spendius 
staggers in from L] 

Spendius 

Lost! Lost! 

Oh ! Had this day but looked upon my death, 
Instead of fleeing like a horsewhipped dog. 
Had they been but men I ne'er had fled, 
But oh ! those charging elephants cowered me, 
Crushing my men like flies beneath their feet, 
And tossing them on high with their huge 

trunks. 

[Matho enters from L. disheartened; sees 
Spendius] 

Matho 

Dog! 

Art thou a traitor too, and would'st defy me.? 

Spendius 
[Falls on knee] 



96 @alam6D 



I'm not a traitor, Matho, but a coward! 
Kill me, 'tis all I do deserve. 

Matho 

If thou art not a traitor, Spendius, rise ; 
But speak. Why have our plans all failed? 

Spendius 

I marched on Utica as thou didst bid. 
No sooner had I charged upon the town 
Than Narr Havas fell upon my rear. 

Matho 
[Surprised] 
Narr Havas ! 

Spendius 
Yes — 

And charged me with a thousand elephants. 
Matho, such beasts as these defy man's sword. 
How can one fight when one is powerless ? 

Matho 
Why has Narr Havas broken oath with us ? 

Spendius 

Salambo was the rock on which he fell. 
She's promised him as bride. 



©alamfto 97 



Matho 

[Stunned] 
Salambo ! Salambo ! 

No, that can never be. She's mine alone. 
It shall not be. I'll prove it by this sword. 
Go find Narr Havas on the battle field, 
Then point him out to me. If he gains her — 
Matho shall never live to know it — Go. 

Spendius 

If I find him, he'll first cross swords with me, 
Nor shall I e'er return without his head. 
[Exit to L] 

Matho 

[Aloiie] 
Yes, one must die; the world's too small for 

both. 
And Avithout her death were the dearest boon. 
To breathe and move, alone, is to exist. 
To live, the heart must triumph in its mate. 
Then let me live encircled by those arms. 
Or Lethe come and be my soothing bride. 

Soldier 

^Rushing in from L] 
Sire, Spendius has been killed. 
He fell a victim to Narr Havas' sword. 



98 ©alamtio 



Matho 

[StunnedJi 
Dead! Did jou say dead? 

Soldier 

I did. He was pierced to the heart. 

Matho 

[To himself] 

Poor fellow ; he was brave of mind, 

But physically was a coward. 

[Narr Havas enters from L. followed hy 
his Men. Matho sees him and draws 
sword] 

At last, at last, the Gods have smiled on me. 

I'd rather see that face of thine, than e'en 

The face of one whose name I dare not speak. 

Draw ! Draw thy sword ! Here is our set- 
tling ground. 

Narr Havas 

[Supercilious air] 
I will not fight. Why should I risk my life, 
When I have aye so much to keep me here. 

Matho 
Thou wilt not fight ! Coward ! I say thou 

shalt, 
Or I will spit thee like a flying hare. 



SalamtJO 99 



Narr Havas 
I'll trap you like a beast for show. 

Matho 

Unlike yourself you'll have a man to show. 

Narr Havas 

[To his Men] 
Men, encircle him within the net. 

[The Men encircle him with a net which 
was used in those days to capture wild 
animals. Matho rushes at Narr Havas 
but is held powerless in net'\ 

Matho 

Thou treacherous coward! Coward! 
[He is overpowered by Men] 

Narr Havas 

[Laughingly^ 
Away, away ; take him away, and torture. 
Ha! ha! ha! ha! 

[Matho is dragged out to R. by Sol- 
diers] 
[Enter Hamilcar from L. and goes up to 
Narr Havas] 

Hamilcar 

Here on the battle field beyond the walls, 
I now proclaim a triumph to our victory. 



100 ^alamfto 



Narr Havas 

And now 'tis done, will you your promise keep ? 
The very essence of a trade is time. 

Hamilcar 

I shall, but call it by some fairer name. 
Thy wish anticipated by my mind. 
Has caused a messenger to be dispatched. 
Salambo as thy bride shall grace this feast. 

Narr Havas 

'Twas not suspicion that lurked in my mind, 
Which is a trait beneath a noble heart. 
But I did tremble, knowing all her worth. 
That any man could give so great a prize. 

Hamilcar 

[Shaking Jiands^ 
Well said, well said. 
Thou art a prince by nature born, 
As well as one by name. 

[Turning to Officer] 
March forth the troops, in gala form, 
While I prepare the feast. 

[Exit to R] 

[Horns blow as signal to troops. Narr 
Havas stands in centre] 



©alamtiD loi 



Narr Havas 

[Turning to Officer] 
Has he been tortured? 

Officer 
He has, my lord, near unto death. 

Narr Havas 

Cried he for mercy? 

Officer 

Mercy? He never breathed one word of fear, 
But cahiily stood and let his blood be took, 
As though it were a feast. 
His courage seems to grow beneath the pain, 
As 'twere but food his spirit fed upon. 

Narr Havas 

I have a torture still in store, 
That yet may crush his pride. 

Officer 

We have attempted every torture known, 
Save one. The irons are on the fire now. 



Narr Havas 



[Interrupting] 
No, save his eyes. 



102 ©alamfio 



I have one sight for them to view, before thej 

close. 
Go tell the men to sec he does not die, 
And save his eyes. 

Officer 

Your order shall be obeyed. 
[Exit to K] 

Narr Havas 

[Aside] 
Success ! My plans though treacherous have 

won, 
And I can scoff at those who would condemn. 
Conscience ! What is conscience, but the weak 

regret 
Of those who would achieve but miss their end? 
An anchor but to thwart us from our goal, 
Which dragged, reveals the filth beneath, to 

view. 
I'll none of it. 

[Troops march in and form in squares. 
Enter Hamilcar from R. and goes up 
to Narr Havas] 

Hamilcar 

The feast is all prepared. 

To-day we'll drain the sacred legions' cups. 



^alam&o los 



Officer 

Sire, thy daughter approaches. 

[Salambo, in bridal costume^ is brought in 
from L. under a silk canopy. Hamil- 
CAR approaches and takes her outl^ 

Salambo 

[Sadly, to father^ 
It is thy wish? 

Hamilcar 
It is, my child. 
And may my wish link with thy happiness. 

Salambo 
I will obey. 

Hamilcar 

[To Narr Havas, giving him her hand'\ 
Here, here, Narr Havas ; take her, she is yours ; 
So fair a bride ne'er had a nobler spouse. 

Narr Havas 

My oath I take, that never was impugned. 
To cherish, serve, and likewise to protect, 
In manner fitting, great Hamilcar's fair daugh- 
ter. 

Hamilcar 
[To Officer] 
Now let the horns ring out a peal of joy. 



104 ^alambo 



And to add double mirth to this groat day 
Let Matho now be loosened from his chains 
And turned a prey to the exulting populace. 

[Grand flourish of trumpets and horns. 
Immediately afterwards cheers and cries 
are heard from xvitlunit. Matho is be- 
ing tortured by the soldiers. He stag- 
gers on stage from R., sees Salambo 
standing by Narr Havas, and stands 
motionless. He is mortally wounded] 

Matho 

The time, the time is come, I'm nearly spent. 

[Looks up and sees Salambo] 
What does this mean ? Is this a fiendish dream ? 
A torture to the mind, while they do tear my 

flesh.? 
Hounds! Were my eyes but saved for this? 
Why did you not pry them from their sockets, 
Or kill their light with burning coals of fire. 
Do anything to save them from this sight ! 
And I should ne'er have whimpered. 
But by the Gods in heaven's high vaults. 
By all the demons cringing round hell's fire, 
This is a torture that eclipses all ! 

[Pauses] 
Narr Havas, I am dying, but we'll meet again. 
I shall await thee with expectant eye 
Close by the portals of the nether world. 



©alambo 105 



There ! There ! shall be our settling ground. 
There! We shall fight on to eternity! 

[Falls in dying^ 
I will chop you up in pieces — then chop 
The pieces in a million parts — Hound ! 

Traitor ! 
Salambo ! My Queen ! My love ! 

IDiesI 

Hamilcar 

The cups, the cups ! We'll have a royal toast. 
[The cups are passed around] 

Narr Havas 

[Raising gohletl 
Here's to great Hamilcar, and Carthage, 
And to the death of yonder dog. 

\_As they drink Salambo throws her cup 
from her and drawing a dagger stabs 
Narr Havas] 

Salambo 

Traitor! Here is thy just reward! 

[Narr Havas falls forward; Salambo 
stands motionless] 

Narr Havas 
I'm killed : I die ! 



106 ©alamljo 



Hamilcar 

[Great excitement] 
What can this mean ? — Help the Prince. 

[Some lean over Narr Havas. Salambo 

goes over and stands hy Matho's body. 

All look dt her appalled'\ 

Salambo 

Now, you would all know why I slew him. 

Not that he killed^ Matho, our city's foe, 

But that he caused his death through treachery. 

Matho was but our country's enemy, 

But he was enemy to all mankind. 

My mission now is ended ; I must go. 

I saved the veil. — I slew the traitor. 

The secret of my heart I'll now reveal. 

Great Matho, though our foe, to me more dear, 

Than country, parents, yea the world itself. 

He's gone, and I shall follow. 

Salambo, great Hamilcar's lone daughter, 

Knows how to live, and when to die ! 

[Stabs herself and falls beside jMatho's 
body] 

Hamilcar 
[Rushing up to Salambo] 

My child ! My child ! Why didst thou not re- 
veal 

The feelings of thy heart to thy poor father? 



S)aIam6o 107 



Salambo 
Grieve not, dear father ; all is done, and well. 
My great desire was never clothed in hope, 
Nor buoyed up by fancy's longing wings. 
I've sailed upon the ocean of despair. 
Without a sail in sight to hail for aid. 
Our country now is free ; so may it stay. 
And teach young children in the times to come 
Of how Salambo lived for duty's sake, 
But died for love. 

[She seems to choke, then raising herself 
starts to throw her body across Ma- 
THo's, exclaimingl^ 
Matho ! I — 

[She stops suddenly, her eyes riveted on 
Matho, Xi:ho shows signs of life^ 
He lives ! 

[IMatho slowly raises himself with his 
arms to a sitting position and gazes 
about listlessly; more dead than aliv€. 
Suddenly he sees Salambo] 

Matho 
Salambo! — Is this heaven.? 

Salambo 
[Wildly] 
It is!— Together! 

[As Salambo utters the last words they 



108 S^alamfto 



instinctively grasp each other in one 
last embrace, their lips locked. They 
remain in this attitude several seconds, 
then fall back dead, still togetherl 



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